Assistance for old women who are not of retirement age yet

dlvstos

I have been through surgery, chemo, and radiation for stage IIIC breast cancer during the past year.  I found this site while looking up the phraseology for Social Security Disability benefits and discovered an older thread that really resonated--women were writing in to discuss how it almost feels like submitting to a death sentence to even apply for those benefits.  There's a fine line between being cognizant of one's mortality and giving in to it.

I am 57, single, and without financial resources after a career of teaching and being a single mom, which with 15/15 positive axillary lymph nodes positive, I am unable to do now.  Post-radiation fatigue is terrible.  Obviously I am not of retirement age.  I've been fortunate enough to have stayed with friends during the past year, but they're selling their home to move to a smaller one and soon I'll be on my own.  I will eventually receive SS Disability benefits, thank God. 

Does anyone know of a place where women in my situation can live independently, yet still in a cooperative environment with others in the same situation?  I can find no resources for people who are experiencing this sort of displacement.  Well-meaning friends who have completely different realities suggest applying for Section 8 housing (which I have), but there must be something out there where women can be in their own space, work while being able to rest (maybe online jobs?) and still contribute to society so they will have more meaningful lives.

Thank you.